The Tigers hit the road last weekend for the Dumas Takedown Tournament. A total of 9 students walked away with medals, four for the girls and five for the boys.
For the girls, Hannah Demel and Ayiana Wright placed 1st in their weight classes. Lexi Jackson and Addis Ledezma placed 2nd in their weight classes.
For the boys, Prosper Ukelegharanya placed 1st in his weight class, and Matthew Key placed 2nd in his weight class. Bundo Ukelegharanya, Angel Arellano, and Kyren Ramos placed 3rd in their weight classes.
Assistant Wrestling Coach, Anna Williams, says that one of the teams' goals this year is to wrestle at state as an entire team.
“Our main goal is to wrestle at state. Last year we had our first state champion and with a few others qualifying. Instead of just qualifying, we want our athletes to be in the bracket and fight for a place on the podium,” said Coach Williams.
One area where they want to improve is gaining a stronger foundation at the beginning of matches.
“Each athlete is different with their own weaknesses, so we have gone over film and are addressing each athlete individually. As a team, we are working on strengthening our foundational setups and shots,” said Coach Williams.
Williams is proud of the strides the wrestling team has made so far and is eager to see how the rest of the season goes. With the help of new coach, Harley DiLulo, the team is gaining a new perspective on how to better excel.
“I am very proud. The girls who competed fought in each match. During practice, it is hard to tell how we will hold up against other schools. The guys also fought and competed well,” said Coach Williams.
“This is our program’s sixth year here at Frenship. We hope as a coaching staff to bring a new intensity and accountability to the program. With Harley DiLulo bringing his experience and knowledge after coaching his team to back-to-back state championships back home in Idaho, the athletes are buying in to a different perspective and it is very exciting to see.”
The Boys will be hitting the road this Saturday, November 18, competing against Eaton High School in Haslet, TX. The first match starts at 9:00 a.m. at Eaton High School.
The Girls will be competing on Wednesday, November 22, in Amarillo against the Tascosa Rebels. The first match starts at 9:00 a.m. at Tascosa High School.